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The 8 best Airbnbs in Rye

Characterful cottages, historic homes and ace hideaways where you can stay the night in this East Sussex town

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If you’re looking for a cosy weekend getaway, look no further than Rye – a quaint little English town in East Sussex. Rye will fulfil all of your get-me-out-of-London needs, with miles of cobbled lanes, snug country pubs with blazing fires, and tons of opportunities to explore the arts and culture on offer. For foodies, there are endless numbers of delicious restaurants and cafes to rejuvenate after a long hard day of, well, pottering around shops. But it’s also home to some incredible places to stay.

Whether you want to escape to a tucked away, old-fashioned cottage, or splash out on some Grand Designs-style architecture, book an Airbnb in Rye to complete your trip. You won't regret it.  

Updated June 2024: Fancy a swim? We've just added a lodge to the list, and it happens to sit next to a £3.5 million clubhouse that grants guests access to their indoor pool, gym, bar and restaurant... 

RECOMMENDED:
The best things to do in Rye

Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every Airbnb featured, we've based our list on top reviews, hosts, and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

The best Airbnbs in Rye

1. The crown stables

This neat period conversion is in a prime location, just a five-minute walk from the train station and the center of Rye. Crown Stables is a thoughtfully designed, modern and rustic one-bedroom cottage, with plush furnishings and added extras like a great coffee machine for that morning brew. The intimate layout and cosy vibes makes it one of the best Airbnbs in Rye for couples. 

Rooms? One bedroom. Sleeps two.
The mood? 
A very English sophistication.
Location perks? 
There’s a pub quite literally on your doorstep – handy.
Budget range? 
A sprinkling of luxury for an affordable price.
Time Out tip: Accept the hosts’ advice on where to eat and enjoy a foodie weekend in Sussex.

2. The stunning cottage

Located on The Mint, a historic street in Rye, this sweet cottage sleeps four in two comfy bedrooms, each with king-size beds (lucky you). There’s a fully stocked kitchen, plus homebaked treats waiting for you on arrival. Breakfast should be enjoyed in the white-walled patio area – a spot that'll transport you across the Mediterranean (weather permitting). If you want to skip the washing up, you’re right in the heart of things, it won't take too long to find delicious food. Complete the day with a visit to the castle, or a blissful walk along the beach.  

Rooms? Two bedrooms. Sleeps four.
The mood? 
Historic cottage turned into adorable modern home.
Location perks? 
Gorgeous sunset views across the tiled rooftops from the aptly named ‘Sky’ bedroom.
Budget range? 
A great price for two couples on a weekend away.
Time Out tip: The hosts go the extra mile with seasonal offering including springtime flowers and a decorated Christmas tree.

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3. The boutique cottage

This boutique and very cute cottage sits right in the heart of the town, with cobbled lanes just a few minutes walk away, as well as independent shops and antiques. This Airbnb is a little slice of luxury whilst keeping in touch with its rustic roots, with wooden beams and country-style furnishings. It sleeps four guests in two bedrooms, plus a sofa-bed in the living room. You'll also have access to the private courtyard that features a bistro table and chairs, perfect for your morning cuppa. And if you're looking for an Airbnb in Rye that's dog-friendly – look no further. 

Rooms? Two bedrooms plus a sofa bed. Sleeps four to six.
The mood? 
A very stylish update of a period property.
Location perks? 
Right in the centre making you spoilt for dining options.
Budget range? 
Another very nice price when split between four or six.
Time Out tip: Admire a silver birch (yes, really) from its location inside the bathroom.

4. The refurbished pub

If you’re looking for somewhere cosy and private with a bit of character, this cottage will do the trick. The quaint spot, hidden away in a leafy nook in Church Square in the heart of Rye, is actually a refurbished Georgian pub, and is a two-mile walk from Camber Sands beach (or a 12 minute drive if you’ve brought a car). The cottage overlooks a sea of thatched rooves and magnificent greenery, opposite St Marys Churchyard and adjacent to the Gun Garden. This place is ideal for two or three people, as there is a sofa bed in the lounge. 

Rooms? Two bedrooms. Sleeps four.
The mood? 
A former Georgian pub turned escape-the-city bolthole. Bring a book and some port, and you’re done.
Location perks? 
Right in the heart of the 12th century action.
Budget range? 
Enough left in your wallet for a well-earned pint or two.
Time Out tip: Acquaint yourself with the town’s (sometimes spooky) history.

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5. The lodge at Maidlands Oast

This stunning private lodge is perfect for a couple’s trip (or friends that get on really well). The vast converted barn is surrounded by the unspoiled Tillingham Valley, overlooking the endless East Sussex countryside. As Airbnbs go, this is more of the luxurious variety. A treat. Huge windows cast sunlight into the lodge in the mornings, and you get cotton dressing gowns for your stay which are, apparently, fluffy. The host also claims you’ll wake up to the sound of birdsong, and there’s plenty of walk opportunities to local pubs and breweries. 

Rooms? One bedroom. Sleeps two.
The mood? 
Hunter wellies and chunky knitwear at the ready: this is a countryside dream.
Location perks? 
Located just outside of Rye, you’ll get striking views of glorious English nature.
Budget range? 
Treat yourself to the picture perfect romantic long weekend.
Time Out tip: Well there’s a local brewery, so…

6. The old surgery

If as many as eight of you are planning an escape to Rye, this sixteenth-century home just off Rye’s High Street might be what you're looking for. It’s a beaut of a building, with grand fireplaces, beams, wood panelling and a deep rolltop bath to sink into. A really charming place for the post-beach snooze. 

Rooms? Four bedrooms. Sleeps eight.
The mood? 
A 16th-century townhouse that’ll have you dreaming of stilton, port, and muddy boots (on the doormat, of course).
Location perks? 
A great choice for a family holiday, the house also has a charming garden.
Budget range? 
A pleasant price for a large party.
Time Out tip: Bagsy the double attic room and stay awake marveling at those beams.

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7. The St John’s conversion

Big into Grand Designs? This place wasn't on the show, but it was in their magazine! The wonderful contemporary cottage is a four bedroom, three bathroom conversion of a former St Johns Ambulance station, right in the centre of Rye. You’ll get to make use of a huge open-plan living space with a wood burner, a big outdoor seating area and four amazing bedrooms. The interior is breathtaking, too. 

Rooms? Four bedrooms. Sleeps eight.
The mood? 
Architectural brilliance meets practicality and style.
Location perks? 
Located slightly uphill, the house has some great views of parts of the town.
Budget range? 
Oh go on, it’s really, really beautiful.
Time Out tip: A former Grand Designs magazine property, this place is perfect for anyone with a proper passion for interior design.

8. The tranquil lodge with clubhouse access

The holiday lodge overlooks Rye Harbour Nature Reserve and sits five minutes away from a £3.5 million clubhouse complex, making it one of the best Airbnbs in Rye with a pool (technically). The clubhouse will give you access to a bar, restaurant, steam room, gym and indoor pool to keep you occupied throughout the day and night. As for the lodge, you'll be able to relax to the max thanks to its comfy armchair, bean bags, log burner and outdoor seating for scenic snuggles under the blanket.  

Rooms? Two bedrooms. Sleeps four. 
The mood?
Peaceful and postcard-perfect. 
Location perks?
Camber Sands and Rye Town are within a 10-minute drive. Rye beach is a 10-minute walk through the reserve. 
Budget range?
A decent price for what's included. 
Time Out tip: Connect to the Lithe Audio speaker system before somebody else does. 

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